David's Old Soul

Which of the following best describes the THEME of the text? 

• Parents often treat their kids like adults, forcing them to grow up too soon.

• Kids are often expected to take care of their siblings over themselves.

• When kids take on more responsibility, they grow up faster.

• Adults are not as compassionate or selfless as kids.

Which of the following quotes best supports the THEME of the poem?

• “my / mother has called me ‘an old soul.’ / I never understood.” (Lines 1-3)

• “now that our family has / dwindled to just Mom and us kids, I’ve grown / into a man” (Lines 3-5)

• “‘David, dig deep,’ / is the whisper in my ear.” (Lines 5-6)

• “I try to be the / raft that helps carry them over this life’s rough rivers.” (Lines 7-8)

How does the phrase “You do what you have to” (Line 5) contribute to the tone of the poem?

• It develops a frustrated tone, as the speaker has no control over his situation.

• It conveys an angry tone, as the speaker refuses to change his situation.

• It introduces a resigned tone, as the speaker accepts his new responsibilities.

• It establishes a proud tone, as the speaker feels good about his new responsibilities.

What do David's ACTIONS throughout the poem suggest about his attitude towards his family?

• David's annoyance with growing up too quickly suggests that he is self-centered.

• David's concern for his mother suggests that he is overly anxious about his family's well-being.

• David's sadness over his father's absence suggests that he is too reliant on his parents' support.

• David's willingness to take care of his brothers suggest that he cares deeply for his family.